BRITISH Gas said last week it has no plans in the pipeline to raise prices. But we don't believe it.

We're willing to bet that at some point next year, your bill from British Gas will go up again - on top of the three increases over the last year.

But you don't have to stay with British Gas. With plenty of suppliers competing for our custom, there's lots of choice. Log on to www.simplyswitch.com or call 0800 781 1212.

You could cut your bills by up to #200 - even if you've already swapped before. You can also protect yourself by introducing simple energy-efficiency measures. They could save another #200 a year, according to the government-backed Energy Savings Trust.

Buy an insulating jacket for your hot water tank. It costs around #10 and can save #10 to #20 a year. And stop heat escaping by draught proofing the gaps around doors, windows and skirting boards. This will cut #10 to #15 off your annual heating bill.

Filling cavity walls costs around #300, but could save #100 a year and it doesn't cost anything to close your curtains to stop heat escaping through the windows.